Nietes tests ‘fly’ power

WHETHER Donnie “Ahas” Nietes can carry his power to the flyweight division will be known when he tangles with Edgar Sosa in the headliner of Pinoy Pride 38: Philippines vs Mexico at StubHub Center in Carson, California, Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

The fight will also test Nietes’ ability to take punches of a flyweight, specifically that of a former world champion like Sosa.

Searching for more lucrative fights, Nietes (38-win, 1-loss, 4-draw slate with 22 knockouts) will make his debut in the 112-pound class after ruling the minimum (105) and light flyweight (108) divisions for over eight years.

But he needs to get past the 37-year-old Sosa, who holds a 52-9 card with 30 knockouts.

Appearing more muscular, Nietes was right on the 112-lb limit during the official weigh-in held at Eagle Rock Plaza Mall in Los Angeles, California, Friday.

Sosa came in a bit lighter at 111.5 lb for their tussle for the World Boxing Organization international flyweight crown.

Unbeaten Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo (14-0, 11 KOs) will battle substitute fighter Ramiro Robles (13-5-1, 8 KOs) for the WBO international featherweight title in the chief support.

Magsayo, a prime prospect for a world title, checked in at 125.5 lb, two pounds heavier than Robles, who replaced the injured Ruben Garcia last week. Roy Luarca